Royal Lytham is a true links course, set upon links land but set back from the current day shoreline, separated by housing, roads, and a rail line. However, the proximity is such that the wind from the sea still comes into play. There are 206 bunkers on the course, an average of over 11 per hole. The course is also unique as it is the only course on the Open Championship rota that starts with a par 3 hole.